Oxford Playhouse has announced the return of its much-loved Playhouse Plays Out Tent, touring across Oxfordshire this summer with The History of (Almost) Everything by Ben Watson.
This brand-new family show takes audiences on a whirlwind journey through time, blending historical storytelling with a playful, modern twist.
The interactive production will visit schools and community venues throughout June and July, culminating in two days of free performances and family-friendly activities at Oxford Playhouse.
Directed by Paul Simpson, The History of (Almost) Everything reimagines iconic historical figures in unexpected ways – from Cleopatra as a pop icon to King John as a modern dictator.
Music plays a central role, with hits like Proud Mary symbolising the invention of the wheel, and a rousing finale featuring The Time Warp.
The show stars storytellers Hannah Bainbridge and Emily Vinnicombe, and is designed to engage children aged 7 and up with a fun, fast-paced, and sometimes surreal take on history.
Ben Watson’s original one-person show debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe and was first staged for young audiences by Oxford Playhouse in 2019. This updated version is packed with fresh content for 2025 audiences.
Over 2,000 schoolchildren will experience the show in their own schools, followed by creative workshops led by Oxford Playhouse professionals.
The tent will also appear at Florence Park’s FloFest and Oxford Children’s Hospital, bringing theatre to communities across the region.
Director Paul Simpson said:
“We’re delighted to bring Ben Watson’s hilarious show, The History of (Almost) Everything, to audiences in the Playhouse Plays Out Tent this summer. This play is hugely entertaining and informative for young people, and we’re thrilled to have reimagined it for audiences this year. The good, the bad and the ugly characters from history will come to life in schools across Oxfordshire in this fun, interactive show, where children can celebrate and learn something new about the past, whilst thinking about their own place in the world of the future.”
Participation and Learning Officer Alice Whitfield-Jessop added:
“As part of the tour, we deliver interactive workshops following each performance to extend the learning experience from the stage into the classroom. Led by experienced theatre professionals, these workshops support the curriculum, and it’s a pleasure to help inspire children to learn through creativity and drama.”
The Playhouse Plays Out Tent is now in its 13th year and remains free for all participating schools, thanks to generous funding from trusts, foundations, and supporters.
The tour concludes with free Open Days at Oxford Playhouse on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 July, featuring performances, craft activities, scavenger hunts, and Youth Theatre taster sessions.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
